Car Wash Trends for 2021
After the crazy year that was 2020, everyone is wondering what is in store for us in 2021. We hope it doesn’t involve any more toilet paper shortages or murder hornets. Those of us in the car wash industry are looking ahead to see what the top trends in 2021 will look like. While we don’t have a crystal ball, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top car wash trends for 2021 (spoiler: there are no murder hornets).
Marketing
Let’s start at the beginning: getting customers to your car wash. What are the best ways to attract and retain customers in 2021? Reliable Plus can help provide you with car wash marketing ideas.
Social Media
Social media usage soared over the past year. Make sure your business has an active and updated social media page. Provide useful information like promotions and specials, new products, community involvement (see more on this below), etc. and stay top-of-mind with your customers.
Online Listings and Review Sites
Do you have a Google My Business listing? Are you listed on Yelp or other online listings? The first step is to get listed on these websites so your customers can find you. If you are listed already, make sure all the information is accurate: business hours, address, payment options, etc. Make it as easy as possible for your customers to find you and have a great experience. The second step is to stay on top of the reviews on these sites. As the company owner, you have the opportunity to respond to all feedback received. Responding in a timely and professional manner shows that you care about your customers and value their feedback.
Community Involvement
Now more than ever is the time to get involved with your community. Shopping local and supporting small businesses continues to be important during the pandemic. Forming partnerships with local businesses will also strengthen your customer base. Work with local youth sports teams, booster clubs, local non-profits and charitable organizations to offer discounted or free car washes. The benefits of this are two-fold: not only are you helping your community, but you are getting your name out to a larger audience who will appreciate your commitment.
Customer Convenience
Over the past year, we have all grown accustomed to online shopping, delivery, curbside pick-up, etc. Though these services were born out of necessity for businesses to keep their doors open during the pandemic, it wouldn’t be surprising if they became a permanent part of some company’s permanent offerings, due to the convenience it offers the customer. As you look ahead to 2021, make customer convenience a priority.
Mobile Apps and Online Car Wash Menus
As the commercial used to say, “There’s an app for that.” Providing an app for your customers has so many benefits. Single use and membership plans alike, all customers benefit from the convenience. Purchase car washes, manage membership plans, update payment options, purchase additional services, all right from a mobile phone. It allows you to build a loyal customer base to whom you can easily send promotions and marketing campaigns.
Mobile Detailing
If your car wash offers detailing services, you may want to consider expanding your services to include mobile. As mentioned earlier, we have all become accustomed to delivery services, staying home, and contactless everything. This is the ultimate convenience for your customers and allows you to offer something that your competition may not be.
Sustainability
Through COVID-19, we have certainly seen an increase in the use of single-serve, disposable products. Because of this, many businesses and industries are turning their focus to other ways in which to be sustainable. Here are some ideas your car wash can implement to be more eco-friendly. And don’t forget to tell your customers about the steps your car wash takes toward becoming more environmentally friendly.
Eco Friendly Products
There are many eco-friendly car wash chemicals available today that didn’t exist even five years ago. If you have a favorite product that isn’t considered eco-friendly, talk to Reliable Plus about finding a substitute.
Energy Efficient Equipment
Upgrading your equipment to something that uses less energy is a win-win: lower bills for you and less energy usage. Think LED bulbs, lighting on sensors, and solar panels, to name a few.
Water Recycling Equipment
Here’s another trend with multi-faceted benefits: Water recycling equipment saves water, sends fewer chemicals into the sewer systems, and saves money on water and sewer bills. Over time, you will save more money on water than you spent on the equipment.
Reliable Plus: Your Partner in 2021 and Beyond
Reliable Plus is your partner in all things car wash, for this year and many years to come. Whether you are site planning, ordering parts and supplies, requesting service and maintenance, or looking to upgrade your equipment, we are here to help! We’ll get your car wash up and running with all the latest car wash trends for 2021. Get in touch today!
